Odisha Sets Target to Irrigate 15 Lakh Hectares by 2029–30: CM Majhi

Bhubaneswar, Oct 31 : The Odisha government has set an ambitious goal to provide irrigation facilities to 15 lakh hectares of agricultural land across the state by the financial year 2029–30, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced on Thursday.

During a visit to the State Hydrological Data Centre in Bhubaneswar, the Chief Minister reviewed water levels in major reservoirs and rivers and assessed the real-time monitoring system used for managing the state’s water resources. He also conducted a comprehensive review of the Water Resources Department’s operations and ongoing irrigation projects.

Speaking to reporters, Majhi said the government is taking concrete measures to ensure water reaches even the tail-end areas of canals, ensuring equitable distribution and better crop productivity.

“The Water Resources Department will be transformed into a more efficient and smart organisation,” the Chief Minister asserted, emphasizing the importance of technology-driven governance and data-based decision-making in managing water resources.

Majhi also inspected various sub-divisions of the department and interacted with engineers, officers, and field staff, encouraging them to work with renewed dedication toward achieving the irrigation targets.

The State Hydrological Data Centre serves as the backbone of Odisha’s water management system, utilizing real-time data to support planning, flood management, and irrigation scheduling.

Development Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary (Water Resources) Anu Garg, Chief Engineer Chandrasekhar Padhi, and other senior officials accompanied the Chief Minister during his visit.